contender

[kuhn-ten-der]

noun

1. a person or group that competes against others to win something; contestant.

   The three remaining contenders for the Democratic Party nomination met for a televised debate.

2. a person or group with a good chance of success in a contest.

   After last season’s disaster, the Texas team needed to convince me they were a contender.

Word History and Origins

Origin of contender¹

contend ( def. ) + -er ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

Four days ago, head coach Derek McInnes said it would be "stupid" to suggest Scottish Premiership leaders Hearts are title contenders after just six matches.

From BBC

Mercedes' George Russell stole the spotlight from the title contenders with a stunning pole position at the Singapore Grand Prix.

From BBC

It is not expected that Aston Martin will be contenders for pole position.

From BBC

Nacua has 42 catches for 503 yards — both league highs — and one touchdown catch for a Rams team that is living up to billing as a Super Bowl contender.

From Los Angeles Times

Next up at Tottenham on 12 October is the struggling New York Jets against the Denver Broncos, who have been mentioned as potential Super Bowl contenders.

From BBC

Related Words

• adversary 
• challenger 
• competition 
• contestant 
• opponent 
• rival